The Cat's-Paw Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?
Complete breakdown of the climax, final twists, and spoilers for The Cat's-Paw.
The Cat's-Paw Ending Explained: Naive Ezekial Cobb, brought up by his missionary father in China returns to America to seek a wife. Directed by Sam Taylor, this 1934 comedy film stars Harold Lloyd (Ezekiel Cobb), alongside Una Merkel as Petunia Pratt / Cobb, George Barbier as Jake Mayo, Nat Pendleton as Strozzi. With a 6.4/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.
What Happens at the End of The Cat's-Paw?
Naive Ezekial Cobb, brought up by his missionary father in China returns to America to seek a wife. Corrupt politicians enlist him to run for mayor as a dummy candidate with no chance of winning. Their plan backfires as he wins and embarks upon a reform crusade.
Sam Taylor's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Harold Lloyd (Ezekiel Cobb)'s journey. Corrupt politicians enlist him to run for mayor as a dummy candidate with no chance of winning.
How Does Harold Lloyd (Ezekiel Cobb)'s Story End?
- Harold Lloyd: Harold Lloyd's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Una Merkel (Petunia Pratt / Cobb): Una Merkel's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- George Barbier (Jake Mayo): George Barbier's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of The Cat's-Paw Mean?
The Cat's-Paw's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Harold Lloyd may feel rushed. Sam Taylor's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.